The Earth Observation Data for Habitat Monitoring (EODHaM) system

To support decisions relating to the use and conservation of protected areas and surrounds, the EU-funded BIOdiversity multi-SOurce monitoring System: from Space TO Species (BIO_SOS) project has developed the Earth Observation Data for HAbitat Monitoring (EODHaM) system for consistent mapping and monitoring of biodiversity. The EODHaM approach has adopted the Food and Agriculture Organization Land Cover Classification System (LCCS) taxonomy and translates mapped classes to General Habitat Categories (GHCs) from which Annex I habitats (EU Habitats Directive) can be defined. The EODHaM system uses a combination of pixel and object-based procedures. The 1st and 2nd stages use earth observation (EO) data alone with expert knowledge to generate classes according to the LCCS taxonomy (Levels 1 to 3 and beyond). The 3rd stage translates the final LCCS classes into GHCs from which Annex I habitat type maps are derived. An additional module quantifies changes in the LCCS classes and their components, indices derived from earth observation, object sizes and dimensions and the translated habitat maps (i.e., GHCs or Annex I). Examples are provided of the application of EODHaM system elements to protected sites and their surrounds in Italy, Wales (UK), the Netherlands, Greece, Portugal and India

Land Cover and Habitat Classification from Earth Observation Data:A New Approach from BIO_SOS

As part of the Biodiversity Multi-Source Monitoring System (BIO_SOS), a new approach to the classification of Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) Land Cover Classification System (LCCS) classes from very high resolution (VHR) remote sensing data has been developed. These classes are also translated to General Habitat Categories (GHCs). Examples of the classification are presented for Cors Fochno in Wales but can be generated for any site where appropriate remote sensing data have been acquired. The system has been developed for operational monitoring of protected areas and their surrounds